Mercedes-Benz unveiled its new GLC with EQ Technology at the IAA Mobility alongside its rival, BMW. According to the automaker, there will be five variants of the mid-size SUV; however, for the moment, the GLC 400 Matic will be the first variant to make its debut.
We reported on the new GLC earlier when it was shown in a YouTube video featuring the CEO of Mercedes-Benz Group, Ola Källenius, who shared some details on it excluding the design elements. However, with the unveiling, it can be seen that the SUV features a newly designed grille, which comes with an illuminated version featuring a total of 942 polycarbonate backlit dots, available as an option.
It also has sleek and angular LED headlights that feature the iconic star logo integrated into the car, with the option to upgrade to Digital Light. Additionally, the central star is also illuminated partially or fully depending on the country.
At the rear, it features a full-width light bar that also incorporates the star logo, which as an option will animate when locked and unlocked. Other features include the two-piece roof spoiler with its black lip and a panoramic roof.
Inside, the car is fitted with a 39.1-inch floating MBUX Hyperscreen and an instrument panel. The interior also features ambient lighting that illuminates even the Starry Sky Control panoramic roof. There is also a Vegan package option for the interior, in which the suite of materials is certified by The Vegan Society.
Furthermore, according to the automaker, the new GLC offers more legroom and headroom compared to its combustion twin, as it has a wheelbase that is 84 mm longer. As for storage, the boot offers 570 litres of capacity, which expands to 1,740 litres with the rear seats folded down. There is also 128 litres of luggage space in the frunk.
The GLC 400 Matic is equipped with a dual-motor setup featuring a permanently excited synchronous machine (PSM), with the rear drive unit featuring a two-speed transmission while the front has a single reduction gear. The SUV delivers 360 kW of output and a top speed of 210 km/h, completing the century sprint in just 4.3 seconds.
The drive unit also incorporates Mercedes-Benz’s One-Box Braking System, which provides recuperation performance of up to 300 kW, contributing to an extended driving range. Four recuperation levels are available: D- (maximum recuperation), D (standard recuperation), D+ (no recuperation), and D Auto (intelligent recuperation).
Powering the SUV is a 94 kWh lithium-ion battery, offering a range of up to 713 km. Built on an 800V architecture, the GLC 400 Matic supports ultra-fast DC charging of up to 330 kW, enabling a 10-minute recharge. A country-specific DC converter is also installed, allowing compatibility with 400-volt fast-charging stations.
Beyond its performance and charging capabilities, the GLC 400 Matic can tow up to 2.4 tonnes and features a dedicated driving programme for field and gravel roads, allowing the SUV to adapt to different terrains. Another highlight is the innovative “Transparent Bonnet”, which provides a virtual view beneath the vehicle by combining feeds from the front and exterior mirror cameras.
As of now, as mentioned above, the GLC 400 Matic will be the first variant to debut from the new GLC line-up. According to the automaker, the SUV will launch during the first half of 2026.
(Source: Mercedes Benz Media)
